CD IELTS in Dubai: Registration, Fees, Dates, IELTS Overview & Practice Resources
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Overview of IELTS
The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is the world’s most popular English proficiency test for higher education and migration. It evaluates your reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills for study, work, and life abroad. For official details, visit IELTS.org.
Future Target Institute is an official British Council IELTS Exam Venue and registration center for both the British Council and IDP. For comprehensive IELTS training, check out our IELTS Training page and read our IELTS Exam UAE Overview.
What is CD IELTS?
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CD IELTS stands for Computer Delivered IELTS. It enables you to take both the General Training and Academic tests on a computer while keeping the same format, question types, and timing as the paper-based test—the only difference being your test day experience.
In CD IELTS, you complete the Reading, Listening, and Writing sections by typing your answers on-screen with digital features like note-taking and highlighting. The Speaking test remains a face-to-face interview with an examiner.
Key benefits include:
- Faster results: Receive your scores within 3-5 days.
- Modern testing environment: Comfortable, custom-built centers.
- Flexible scheduling: Exams are held every Saturday and Sunday.
Key Differences: CD IELTS vs Paper‑Based IELTS
- Answer Entry: CD IELTS requires typing directly on-screen, while paper-based tests use pencil with an extra transfer period.
- Test Order: Section order is optimized for digital versus traditional workflows.
- Listening Section: CD IELTS records responses in real time, eliminating the extra 10 minutes for answer transfer.
- Exam Venue: CD IELTS is conducted in smaller, modern centers designed for comfort and minimal distractions.
- Digital Tools: Features like on-screen note-taking and answer review enhance the testing experience.
How to Register for Your IELTS Test
Registering is quick and simple. Follow these steps:
- Visit our registration page: Register for IELTS
- Provide Identification: Upload a clear, color scan or photo of your valid Passport or Emirates ID. (These details are used only for registration and must be presented on test day.)
- Payment: Complete your registration using a credit or debit card. Use the format [IELTS / Family Name / City / Test Date] in the Reference field.
- Book in Advance: We recommend booking at least a month ahead to secure your preferred date.
IELTS Fees in Dubai (2025)
Exam Fees:
- Computer Delivered IELTS: AED 1370
- Paper Based IELTS: AED 1270
For further fee details, please visit our IELTS Exam Fee page.
What You Need to Book Your Test
Before registering, ensure you have the following:
- Identification: A valid Passport or Emirates ID. (Candidates under 18 require written parental consent.)
- Payment: A credit/debit card. Use the format [IELTS / Family Name / City / Test Date] in the Reference field.
- Special Requirements: If you have special needs, please contact our center and consider the paper-based exam option.
After You Have Booked Your Test
After your test is confirmed, you will receive an email with:
- Test Start Time & Venue: The exact time and address of your exam location.
- Speaking Test Date: Details on when your face-to-face Speaking test will be conducted.
- Free Preparation Material: Access to IELTS Ready Premium resources.
Tried a mock test yet? Start your IELTS mock test now
Familiarise yourself with IELTS test format by taking our listening and reading mocks with any package you choose.
These timed practice tests develop your test-taking techniques and help you perform better in the actual test.
Take a mock testCD IELTS Test Dates in 2025
CD IELTS tests are held every Saturday and Sunday throughout 2025. Refer to the table below for all available test dates:
Free Preparation Materials
Boost your IELTS score with free resources such as:
- Practice apps
- Instructional videos
- Online lessons
- Free practice tests for both computer-delivered and paper-based formats
Additional Information on CD IELTS
CD IELTS offers a modern, efficient testing experience with several advantages:
- Enhanced convenience: State-of-the-art exam centers.
- Quicker results: Scores are available within 3-5 days.
- Flexible scheduling: Multiple test dates every weekend.
- Digital tools: On-screen note-taking and answer review enhance your test experience.
Practice IELTS Reading on Computer
Enhance your preparation by practicing IELTS Reading on computer. Explore a comprehensive set of sample questions covering 11 question types (totaling 41 questions), including:
- Multiple Choice
- Identifying Information
- Note Completion
- Matching Headings
- Matching Sentence Endings
- Summary Completion
- Sentence Completion
- Flow‑Chart Completion
Start your practice by choosing one of the options below:
Review your performance with these answer sheets:
Practice IELTS Reading on Paper
Try these free sample questions for IELTS Reading on paper to see if the traditional format suits you.
Sample Questions:
Flow‑Chart Completion:
Identifying Information:
Multiple Choice:
Summary Completion:
Practice IELTS Writing on Computer
Prepare for your IELTS Writing test on computer with sample questions designed for the digital format. The Writing test consists of two tasks:
- Task 1: Write 150 words in about 20 minutes.
- Task 2: Write 250 words in about 40 minutes.
Begin your practice by selecting one of the options below:
Review your performance using these answer sheets:
Practice IELTS Writing on Paper
Download these free sample questions for IELTS Academic Writing on paper to understand the traditional test format.
IELTS Academic
Writing Task 1:
Writing Task 2:
IELTS General Training
Sample Questions:
Additional resources:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is CD IELTS easier than paper‐based IELTS?
Answer: No, both formats maintain a similar level of difficulty; it largely depends on personal preferences—some candidates find typing easier while others prefer writing by hand.
Which format offers faster result turnaround?
Answer: CD IELTS typically delivers results within 3–5 days, whereas paper‐based IELTS results can take up to 13 days.
Are the test contents and question types identical in both formats?
Answer: Yes, both CD IELTS and paper‐based IELTS assess the same skills using identical content and question types, with the only differences being the method of answer entry and the test day experience.
Is the Speaking test different between CD IELTS and paper‐based IELTS?
Answer: No, the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face with a certified examiner in both formats.
How does the Listening test differ in CD IELTS?
Answer: In CD IELTS, you type your answers directly on-screen and receive a short 2‑minute review period, whereas in paper‐based IELTS you write answers on a booklet and get an extra 10 minutes to transfer them.
Do I get extra time to transfer answers in the paper‐based Listening test?
Answer: Yes, paper‐based IELTS provides an additional 10 minutes to transfer your answers from the question booklet to the answer sheet.
Is typing speed critical for success in CD IELTS?
Answer: Basic typing skills are sufficient. However, if you type very slowly, it could affect your performance in the Writing section.
Can I practice CD IELTS using online resources?
Answer: Absolutely. There are many online practice tests and preparation materials specifically designed for the computer-based format.
What digital features does CD IELTS offer?
Answer: CD IELTS provides on-screen note-taking, automatic word count in Writing, a navigation bar to track unanswered questions, and other tools to help manage your time.
Are more test dates available for CD IELTS?
Answer: Yes, CD IELTS is generally offered more frequently, often with multiple sessions available each weekend.
Do I need to worry about handwriting in CD IELTS?
Answer: No, since you type your answers in CD IELTS, issues with illegible handwriting are eliminated.
Does the mode of delivery affect the overall difficulty of the test?
Answer: No, the difficulty level remains the same; only the method of answer entry changes.
What identification do I need to register for IELTS?
Answer: A valid passport or Emirates ID is required for both CD IELTS and paper‐based IELTS.
Are the scoring criteria the same for both formats?
Answer: Yes, both formats are marked using the same criteria, so your band score is independent of the test mode.
Can I use a pencil in CD IELTS?
Answer: No, CD IELTS requires you to type your answers on the computer, though you may be provided with paper for note-taking.
How does the test environment differ between the two formats?
Answer: CD IELTS is conducted in modern, smaller test centers with individual workstations, while paper‐based tests are held in larger rooms with more candidates.
Does CD IELTS allow extra time for reviewing answers?
Answer: CD IELTS provides a 2‑minute review period at the end of the Listening section, unlike the 10‑minute answer transfer time in paper‐based IELTS.
How are Reading passages presented in CD IELTS?
Answer: In CD IELTS, Reading passages are displayed on-screen, often with digital tools such as adjustable font size and highlighting options.
Is the computer interface user-friendly for non-tech-savvy candidates?
Answer: Yes, the interface is designed to be intuitive, though practicing with online CD IELTS simulations is recommended if you’re not used to computer-based tests.
Can I take CD IELTS at home?
Answer: No, currently CD IELTS must be taken at designated test centers and is not offered as an at-home test.
Does CD IELTS make it easier to edit and revise my answers?
Answer: Yes, the digital format allows for easy editing, rearranging, and revising of your answers during the test.
How do I register for the CD IELTS versus the paper‐based test?
Answer: Registration is similar for both; you simply choose your preferred format (if available) when booking through your test center’s website.
Is there a fee difference between CD IELTS and paper‐based IELTS?
Answer: Yes, fees may vary slightly between the two formats. For example, CD IELTS might have a slightly higher fee due to the use of digital technology.
Can I choose my preferred test format when booking?
Answer: Yes, if both formats are available at your test center, you can select the one that best suits your preferences and schedule.
What tools does CD IELTS offer to help with time management?
Answer: CD IELTS provides an on-screen timer, a navigation bar for tracking progress, and a live word count for the Writing section.
Does the Listening test in CD IELTS have a shorter transfer time?
Answer: Yes, because answers are entered directly into the computer, there is no 10‑minute transfer period—only a brief 2‑minute review time is provided.
Will my test report show whether I took CD IELTS or the paper‐based test?
Answer: No, the Test Report Form only displays your overall band score and does not indicate the format you took.
Are the exam instructions different in CD IELTS compared to paper‐based IELTS?
Answer: The instructions are essentially the same, though CD IELTS includes on-screen prompts and digital guidance to assist you.
Do both test formats include the same question types?
Answer: Yes, regardless of the format, the IELTS uses the same question types in the Listening, Reading, and Writing sections.
Which format is better for candidates who struggle with note-taking?
Answer: Candidates who prefer digital note-taking might find CD IELTS advantageous due to its on-screen note and highlighting features, though both formats offer paper for personal notes.
How long does it take to get CD IELTS results?
Answer: Results are typically available within 3-5 days after the test.
What is the difference in the Listening test for CD IELTS?
Answer: In CD IELTS, answers are entered directly on-screen, eliminating the extra 10-minute transfer period found in paper-based tests.
How do I register for the IELTS test?
Answer: Registration is easy. Visit our registration page, upload a clear scan or photo of your Passport or Emirates ID, and pay online with your credit/debit card.
What are the benefits of taking IELTS on a computer?
Answer: Benefits include faster results, a streamlined digital testing experience with note‑taking features, and a modern exam environment with flexible scheduling.
What documents are required to book the test?
Answer: A valid Passport or Emirates ID is required. Candidates under 18 must provide written parental consent.
How are test dates scheduled for CD IELTS?
Answer: CD IELTS tests are held every Saturday and Sunday. Please refer to the Test Dates table for the complete schedule in 2025.
What is the IELTS exam structure?
Answer: The IELTS exam is divided into four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening and Reading tests include various question types, while the Writing test consists of two tasks and the Speaking test is conducted face-to-face.
How can I access free IELTS preparation materials?
Answer: You can access a variety of free preparation materials—including practice apps, instructional videos, online lessons, and sample tests—directly from our website.
Can I reschedule my IELTS test?
Answer: Yes, rescheduling is possible, subject to availability and any applicable fees. Please check with your test center for further details.
Important Links
- Official IELTS Website
- IDP Education - IELTS
- British Council - IELTS
- Pearson's Test Of English
- IELTS Preparation Tips
- IELTS Practice Tests
- IELTS Exam Overview & Details
- Complete List of British Council IELTS Partners in UAE
- PTE or IELTS: Which one to choose? IELTS Trainer Profile
- Why is PTE better than IELTS